IAF Confirms Lahore ATC Denied IndiGo Flight 6E 214 Access to Pakistan Airspace

By A Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI – The Indian Air Force (IAF) has confirmed that Lahore Air Traffic Control (ATC) denied permission to IndiGo flight 6E 214 to enter Pakistani airspace, citing an active NOTAM issued by Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority. The incident, which occurred during a routine commercial flight, resulted in a safe diversion and landing at Srinagar with professional assistance from Indian aviation authorities.

The IAF clarified that NOTAM A0220/25, issued by Pakistan, was in effect until 23 May 2025, midnight, and explicitly barred Indian-registered aircraft and those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines—including military flights—from entering Pakistani airspace.

“Lahore ATC advised the IndiGo crew in line with the NOTAM, which is a routine and integral part of pre-flight route planning for all airlines,” said IAF sources. “Safety of the aircraft and passengers remained paramount throughout the process.”

According to the IAF, after being denied entry, the aircraft crew promptly contacted Delhi Area Control. Lahore ATC also provided the necessary frequencies for coordination, though overflight clearance was not granted. Subsequently, the aircraft diverted toward Srinagar, where it was guided with precision.

“Indian air traffic controllers ensured the aircraft was professionally assisted with control vectors and groundspeed readouts until it landed safely at Srinagar airfield,” the IAF added.

This incident highlights the ongoing implications of deteriorating India-Pakistan relations, particularly in the aviation sector. The original NOTAM was part of Pakistan’s broader airspace closure against Indian aircraft following heightened tensions post the Pahalgam terror attack.